NEWSBOY TO EDITOR.

Auckland Star, Volume LVI, Issue 85, 11 April 1925, Page 12

NEWSBOY TO EDITOR.

MR. J. BALL'S RETIREMENT. PRESENTATION AT WANGANTJI. (B/ Teltsraph.— Own Correspondent.) WANGANUI, this day. ' The largest and most representative gathering of Wanganuu citizens ever associated with the public life of the city took place on Thursday evening to do honour to Mr. John Ball, who recently relinquished the editorial chair of the Wanganui "Chronicle." All local bodies, churches and all shades of political opinion were represented, and many of the city's leading citizens did honour to their • gusst in testifying to the wonderful service he had renderc/1 the community during the fourteen years of occupancy of the editorial chair. It was stated that Mr. Ball commenced life as a newsboy runner in the "Chronicle" office, and, by devotion and efficiency, he gradually worked himself up to the positions of reporter, sub-editor, and then editor, a position with he filled with distinct ability. The Mayor, who presided, presented Mr. Ball, on behalf of the citizens, with a valuable illuminated address in book form, and adequately illustrated, also a well-filled purse of sovereigns. Mr. Ball, who feelingly acknowledged the gift and the very fine opinions expressed of his ability and the service lie had rendered to Wanpramii, said he had been inspired by the high character and lofty ideals of Jiis predecessor, the late Hon. Gilberd Carson. He had, he said, humbly endeavoured to follow in Mr. Carson's steps, and to preserve unsullied the traditions of British journalism which his predecessor so nobly and so fearlessly honoured and defended. He thanked them for their gifts, for their friendship, and their esteem.